Werkself review: Strong home form with a deadly duo up front

Following a delayed kick-off due to a protest by the Freiburg fans, both teams quickly demonstrated their current impressive form on the pitch: the match was characterised by numerous high-precision passing moves and very few errors. The visitors struck first when Derry Scherhant capitalised on a lightning-fast counter-attack down Philipp Treu’s right flank to make it 1–0 for SCF (14’). The Werkself remained unfazed and struck back just six minutes later through Ibrahim Maza (20’). The assist came from Patrik Schick – and Maza returned the favour midway through the second half. The Algeria international, leaving three Freiburg players in his wake, set up the Czech, who put his side on the path to victory with his record-breaking goal (see below) (76’). The lead was thoroughly deserved, as Bayer 04 had largely controlled the game and created the majority of the chances for long stretches. Although the Black Forest club had another good chance to equalise through Lucas Höler, the striker headed wide (90+2), meaning Leverkusen were able to hold on for the three points.

• Match report
• Highlights

“For me, Freiburg are currently one of the best teams in the league,” was how head coach Carles Martínez began his summary at the post-match press conference, adding: “Although they scored relatively early, we quickly regrouped after conceding and equalised. This match was decided by small details that influenced the teams’ mentality and the atmosphere in the stadium. I’m very happy with my team and with the way we’ve consistently found solutions in difficult moments.”

The Spaniard was also full of praise for the Maza/Schick duo. “Maza is an enormously talented player who brings us a great deal with his agility. What’s more, he’s always striving to improve,” emphasised Martínez, who was equally impressed by his striker: “Patrik wasn’t at all self-centred when it came to the chance to set this record. He was the leader for us, as he always is, helped the team immensely as always, and ultimately reaped his well-deserved reward. I’m absolutely delighted for him!”

After the match, Schick was also “delighted with the record. The names in Bayer 04’s history are truly legendary – to be able to join their ranks makes me very proud.” Reflecting on his successful partnership with Maza, the Czechia internatioinal said with a smile: “My backheel assist was pretty good, but I have to admit that Ibo’s pass was just a bit better.” Maza, beaming with joy, added: “The more we play together, the better we understand each other. We also help each other out when we make mistakes. Patrik is a superb striker – he’s a clinical finisher!”

Schick to Maza, Maza to Schick – SC Freiburg had no answer to the Bayer 04 attacking duo. The 2–1 win marked the sixth goal for star striker Schick, and it meant much more than that: the Czechia international has now scored on every one of the first six matchdays this season – a sole club record. In doing so, he overtook Dimitar Berbatov (2005/06 season) and Stefan Kießling (2009/10), who had both scored on each of the first five matchdays. To mark this record, Bayer 04 has not only extended its free shirt printing promotion but has also added further discounts.

SCHICK PROMOTION!

Stats: Strong home form and quality up front

Once again, there was little to be gained for Freiburg at the BayArena. The 2–1 victory marked Leverkusen’s fourth consecutive home win against SCF. This means the Black and Reds are now unbeaten in eight Bundesliga encounters against the Breisgau side. It's also the first time in around a year that Bayer 04 have won three matches in a row in the top flight.

What is becoming clear is that Bayer 04 continue to hone the strengths that have led to their recent successes. League-wide, Martínez’s side boast the second-best attack and also register the second-highest number of shots on goal. In terms of possession, the Werkself lie second (54 per cent), whilst an average pass completion rate of 87.3 per cent puts them third in the league.

This Thursday, 22 October (kick-off: 18:45 CEST, 19:45 local), Martínez’s side face OFI Crete in Greece on Matchday 3 of the league phase of the UEFA Europa League. Then, on Sunday, 25 October (kick-off: 15:30 CEST), it’s back to the bread and butter of the Bundesliga, when Bayer 04 are away to TSG Hoffenheim in Sinsheim.